What should you do if you experience a welding-related burn?

The appropriate action to take if you experience a welding-related burn is to cool the burn with running water and seek medical attention if necessary. Cooling the area with running water helps to reduce the temperature of the burn, alleviating pain and preventing further skin damage. It's essential to use cool— not ice-cold—water, as extreme cold can cause additional injury to the tissue.

Seeking medical attention, especially for second-degree burns or more severe types, is crucial because professional assessment and care may be needed to properly treat the burn and prevent complications such as infection. Burns from welding can often be more severe than their initial appearance suggests, making it important to take them seriously and get appropriate help.

In contrast, applying ice directly to the burn can be harmful, as it may cause frostbite or further irritate the injury. Covering the burn with a dry cloth and continuing to work might expose the burn to infection and delay necessary treatment. Ignoring minor burns could also lead to complications, as even seemingly minor injuries can develop into more significant problems if not treated properly. Thus, cooling the burn and seeking medical attention when needed is the safest and most effective course of action.